MARTIN ASHTON CAUGHT IN KESWICK AND THIRSK WITH ILLEGAL CHILD IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Keswick and Thirsk, Martin John Ashton, aged 52, was found to have secretly taken a large number of photographs depicting naked children from his residence in Keswick. The incident came to light after police seized electronic devices from Ashton in June of the previous year, which upon forensic analysis revealed a troubling collection of images.

According to court reports, Ashton used a digital camera to covertly capture a total of 95 photographs of two children of primary school age. These images were taken while the children were in a state of undress, with several photographs focusing on their intimate body parts. The court heard that the children were unaware of the photographs being taken, and their parents, who identified the children in question, expressed their shock and concern. However, the parents chose not to inform the children about the photographs to protect them from further distress.

Further investigations uncovered that Ashton had downloaded and stored nearly 300 other illegal images, including both still photographs and videos, over a span of approximately 12 years. This extensive collection indicated a long-term pattern of illicit activity. Ashton, who was described as a man of previously good character, admitted to making, taking, and possessing indecent images of children. Additionally, authorities found cannabis on him at the time of his arrest, which contributed to the charges.

During the court proceedings, Ashton’s defense lawyer, David Wales, argued that the large number of images taken on a single day could be explained by the use of a multi-capture camera burst setting, which automatically takes multiple photographs in quick succession. Despite the severity of the charges, Ashton was not sentenced to immediate imprisonment. Instead, Judge Peter Davies imposed a 14-month prison sentence, which was suspended for two years. The judge emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and support, ordering Ashton to complete a sex offender treatment program, perform 180 hours of unpaid community service, and undergo rehabilitation.

Furthermore, Ashton is required to register as a sex offender and adhere to a strict five-year prevention order designed to prevent any contact offenses. Judge Davies expressed a firm belief that individuals like Ashton should receive help to prevent future offenses, stating, “I’m very firmly of the view that people like you should have all the help they possibly can to prevent them from committing actual contact offenses, so that you don’t develop and progress to that.” He added, “I think it’s better if you stay out of prison and get help. If I gave you a prison sentence, they wouldn’t have the resources to help you, and that wouldn’t be in anybody’s interests.”

Ashton now resides at Melrose Gardens, Sowerby, Thirsk, and will be monitored closely under the conditions set by the court to ensure compliance with the rehabilitation measures and legal restrictions.